Eagles sign second-round CB Cooper DeJean

DeJean was one of the more intriguing prospects in the 2024 class, one dominated at the top by offensive players. That was demonstrated by the historic run of quarterbacks, tackles and receivers to begin the opening round, but it still came as a surprise when DeJean did not hear his name called on Day 1. The Eagles traded up to select him at No. 40.

In doing so, they made another draft investment in the secondary. That unit struggled in 2023, and Philadelphia responded before the DeJean selection by adding Quinyon Mitchell as the first defensive back to hear his name called. 

The latter is positioned to see time alongside Darius Slay and James Bradberry as a perimeter corner, but the former’s NFL role is less clear.

DeJean played at corner during his time at Iowa, but he also had success when lining up as a safety. He was named the Big Ten’s top defensive back and returner last season, a sign of his skill set both on defense and special teams. A fractured leg ended the 6-foot-1, 203-pounder’s college career prematurely, and it may have hindered his draft stock.

Nevertheless, DeJean will join the Eagles with expectations of being able to contribute in the third phase even if he does not land a starting job on defense right away. 

After ranking 31st in the league in passing yards allowed last year, the team has plenty of room for improvement in the secondary. New defensive coordinator Vic Fangio will spend the summer attempting to find DeJean’s ideal position during his rookie campaign.

Here is an updated look at the Eagles’ draft class:

• Round 1, No. 22: Quinyon Mitchell (CB, Toledo)
• Round 2, No. 40 (from Bears through Commanders): Cooper DeJean (CB, Iowa) (signed)
• Round 3, No. 94 (from 49ers): Jalyx Hunt (EDGE, Houston Christian) (signed)
• Round 4, No. 127 (from Eagles): Will Shipley (RB, Clemson) (signed)
• Round 4, No. 132 (from 49ers): Ainias Smith (WR, Texas A&M) (signed)
• Round 5, No. 155 (from Steelers through Rams, Panthers and Colts): Jeremiah Trotter Jr. (LB, Clemson) (signed)
• Round 5, No. 172: Trevor Keegan (G, Michigan) (signed)
• Round 6, No. 185: Johnny Wilson (WR, Florida State) (signed)
• Round 6, No. 190 (from Saints through Packers): Dylan McMahon (C, NC State) (signed)